A sport utility vehicle (SUV) bearing a House of Representatives logo that figured in a fatal hit-and-run in Mandaluyong City last week is owned by a private businessman and not a member of Congress or any government official, a source said, as authorities also look into allegations that the case was being “settled with money.”
The Toyota Land Cruiser was involved in the July 10 crash along Ortigas Avenue that killed a female back rider and injured a 25-year-old motorcycle taxi rider.
According to a report of RH Edniel Parrosa on DZRH's Dos Por Dos, a source told DZRH that the vehicle owner’s camp and the driver have been summoned to appear before the Land Transportation Office (LTO) on July 16.
The agency is expected to focus on why the vehicle’s license plate and conduction sticker were concealed and how it obtained a House of Representatives sticker.
DZRH News earlier reported that the SUV’s conduction sticker had been covered with a House logo, while its plate was wrapped in newspaper before being removed by police forensic personnel. The covering was allegedly done by the owner’s camp.
In a separate statement, LTO chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao said those involved could face charges for tampering with authorized motor vehicle license plates and/or third plate stickers, reckless driving, and allowing an improper person to operate a motor vehicle.
The vehicle has been placed under alarm, and the driver was slapped with a 90-day preventive suspension.
Mandaluyong police chief Col. Reynan Patam said the driver underwent inquest proceedings Saturday for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, physical injury and damage to property. The suspect remains in police custody.
Authorities declined to release the suspect’s identity, citing data privacy rules, but a separate source said the driver is the 20-year-old son of the vehicle’s owner.
The injured rider remains hospitalized and has yet to grant interviews, according to the family. The victim reportedly suffered bleeding on the right side of the brain and has not fully recalled the incident.
Initial reports said the suspect attempted to flee and tried to enter a nearby shopping center before losing control of the vehicle. Police were able to corner the driver after the SUV sustained damage, including a blown tire and a smashed front end, which slowed the escape.
The investigation remains ongoing, and Mandaluyong police are expected to provide further updates as the case develops.
